Description
Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce is a quick and delicious seafood dish featuring perfectly seared scallops coated in a rich, creamy, and spicy Cajun-flavored sauce, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 1 pound scallops
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Others
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare and Season Scallops: Pat the scallops dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Then, season them evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Heat Oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking, providing an optimal surface for searing.
- Sear Scallops: Place the scallops carefully into the hot skillet. Sear them without moving for 2-3 minutes on one side until a golden brown crust forms, then flip and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until opaque and cooked through.
- Remove Scallops: Take the scallops out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate to rest while you prepare the sauce.
- Make Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet with the remaining oil and browned bits, add the heavy cream, cajun seasoning, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and flavors meld together.
- Combine Scallops and Sauce: Return the scallops to the skillet, coating them thoroughly with the spicy cream sauce. Heat them together for an additional minute to warm through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the scallops for a fresh herbal note and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Patting scallops dry is crucial for achieving a perfect sear and preventing steaming.
- If you prefer less spicy sauce, reduce the Cajun seasoning amount.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Use fresh parsley for the best vibrant flavor and color garnish.
